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Published: 2026-06-02
Abstract Views: 64
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52163/yhc.v67iE1.5242
Issue
Vol. 67 No. English Version No 1, 2026
Section
Articles
How to Cite
Minh, P. N., Hien, N. ., Sơn, B. T., & Thach, P. N. (2026). NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS AND TWIN-TO-TWIN TRANSFUSION SYNDROME: A RARE CASE REPORT. Vietnam Journal of Community Medicine, 67(English Version No 1, 2026). https://doi.org/10.52163/yhc.v67iE1.5242

NECROTIZING ENTEROCOLITIS AND TWIN-TO-TWIN TRANSFUSION SYNDROME: A RARE CASE REPORT

Pham Ngoc Minh1, Nguyen Hien1, Bui Thanh Son2, Pham Ngoc Thach1
1 Children’s Hospital 2
2 University of Medicine and Pharmacy, HCM City

Main Article Content

Abstract

 


Overview: Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a critical gastrointestinal emergency in preterm infants. Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS) represents a significant risk factor, particularly for the donor twin due to chronic intestinal hypoperfusion.


Case presentation: A male infant, born at 31 weeks 4 days, birth weight 900g, was the donor twin in a TTTS pregnancy. The patient presented with signs of bowel obstruction, abdominal distension, and bilious gastric residuals. Preoperative diagnosis suggested duodenal atresia. Intraoperative findings revealed a segment of focal necrotic bowel causing obstruction, 65cm from the Treitz ligament. Resection and end-to-end anastomosis were performed. Histopathology confirmed NEC with the presence of ganglion cells.


Discussion: This case illustrates the ischemic mechanism in donor twins leading to intestinal mucosal injury and necrosis, presenting as bowel obstruction rather than classic peritonitis.


Conclusion: A high index of suspicion for NEC is required in preterm donor twins of TTTS, even with atypical clinical and radiological presentations.

Article Details

Keywords

Necrotizing enterocolitis; Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome; Donor twin, preterm; Neonatal intestinal obstruction.

References

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